A Texas man, Leroy Otero, has pleaded guilty to charges related to a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced the plea on February 4, 2025, before United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter in New Orleans.

Otero, 35, admitted to conspiring to distribute and possessing with intent to distribute significant quantities of methamphetamine. Specifically, he was charged with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine. These actions are violations of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and 846.

As a result of these charges, Otero faces severe penalties including a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison with the possibility of life imprisonment. He could also be fined up to $10 million and would be subject to at least five years of supervised release following any prison term. Additionally, there is a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

Sentencing for Otero is scheduled for May 29, 2025.

The investigation into Otero's activities revealed that he was supplying large amounts of methamphetamine to local drug dealers in Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes. This operation was uncovered by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

The case involved several law enforcement agencies including the DEA, Houma Police Department, Louisiana State Police, and the Sheriff’s Offices in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes. Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu from the Narcotics Unit prosecuted the case.